eMBMS Demonstration - Unicast/Multicast Comparison Scenario

Embms Presentation

The presentation discusses the shift towards digital broadband networks from legacy networks in critical communication systems.

Legacy Networks vs. Broadband Networks

• Legacy networks like Tetra are limited to one-to-many communication, while 4G and 5G networks offer additional features such as video and data sharing.

• Broadband networks enable one-to-one communication but can scale by adding multicast features, converting them into one-to-many networks.

• Legacy networks are proprietary, while broadband networks follow standardized interfaces defined by 3GPP.

Unicast, Broadcast, and Multicast Networks

• Unicast involves one-to-one communication, broadcast is one-to-all with exclusions possible, while multicast allows addressing a group and excluding others for efficient bandwidth use.

• Multicast is likened to public transportation for bits and bytes, optimizing bandwidth usage compared to unicast or broadcast.

Benefits of Multicast in Networks

• Multicast is essential for limited bandwidth scenarios, crowded cells, large group calls, or when enriching calls with video or data.

• Scalability, robust reception, synchronized delivery, faster file downloads, spectrum efficiency, device battery saving are key benefits of using multicast in networks.

Multicast Feature Use Cases

Various scenarios demonstrate the practical applications of the multicast feature in critical communication situations.

Practical Examples

• Train crash situation: Commandant streams live content for rescuers' analysis.

• Building on fire: Firefighters use a drone to stream events for better intervention planning.

Server and Client Configuration

In this section, the configuration of both the server and client sides is discussed, detailing the components involved in each setup.

Server Components

• The server side comprises a KN box for private 4G and 5G networks.

• Additional components include a multicast server, media castom mobile, and MCX application server for demonstration purposes.

Client Components

• On the client side, there are five different terminals from Zebra Cross C.

• Devices on the client side integrate components such as NNCs Cub agent, multicast client, and Cybertel MCX application Client.

Unicast vs. Multicast Scenarios

A comparison between unicast and multicast scenarios is presented, highlighting bandwidth consumption differences based on the type of transmission.

Unicast Scenario

• In a unicast scenario, one person speaks while others receive individual video streams.

• Each receiver consumes approximately 600 kilobits per second, totaling to 2,400 kilobits per second for four receivers.

Multicast Scenario

• In a multicast scenario with four receivers, only 600 kilobits per second is consumed collectively.

• Multicasting reduces bandwidth consumption by dividing it among recipients efficiently.

User Interface Demonstration

The user interface of the ebox is explored to showcase traffic patterns in unicast and multicast scenarios.

Traffic Visualization

• Private SIM cards connect devices to 4G private networks within the ebox.

• Two graphics illustrate unicast and multicast traffic patterns on the user interface.

Video Call Demonstrations

Practical demonstrations of video calls in both unicast and multicast modes are conducted to observe traffic variations.

Unicast Video Call

• A video call is initiated with different terminals consuming an average of 2,400 bits per second individually.

Multicast Video Call

• Terminals switch to multicast mode for synchronized reception of video content.